Western Washington Tree Service Blog

When a tree is cut down, you might consider leaving the stump behind, thinking it won’t pose any problems. However, tree stumps can cause issues related to aesthetics, safety, and the functionality of your outdoor space. At Western Washington Tree Service, we provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater Duvall, WA area. Here are five reasons to remove tree stumps after cutting down trees. Enhance Curb Appeal A tree stump, especially as it ages and begins to rot, can be an eyesore in an otherwise well-maintained landscape. Stumps disrupt the flow of your yard’s design and can make your property look neglected. Removing the stump helps create a more polished look, enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. Prevent Pests and Diseases As tree stumps begin to decompose, they can attract pests like termites and ants. These pests often use the stump as a home base and may then spread to other parts of your yard or even your house. Stumps can also harbor fungi and diseases that can spread to nearby healthy plants and trees, causing further damage to your landscape. Reduce Risk of Injury Tree stumps are a common tripping hazard, for young children and anyone else in the yard. These stumps can be especially dangerous if they’re hidden by grass or leaves. By removing the stump, you’re reducing the risk of accidental falls and creating a safer outdoor space for everyone. Prevent Unwanted Growth Stumps may seem harmless, but many types of trees can produce new sprouts from their roots, leading to unwanted growth. These sprouts can create an unkempt appearance while draining resources from the soil that could be used to nourish nearby plants and flowers. Stump removal helps prevent these sprouts from competing with your other plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Maximize Usable Yard Space A tree stump can take up valuable yard space that could be better utilized. Whether you want to plant a garden or simply create a larger open lawn, removing the stump allows you to make better use of your yard’s potential. This extra space can be an asset, particularly in smaller yards where every square foot counts. Stump Grinding and Removal in Duvall, WA For stump removal in Duvall, WA and the surrounding area, contact Western Washington Tree Service at  425-292-8859  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Duvall!

Healthy trees are wonderful property features, providing shade, beauty, and habitat for wildlife. However, there are times when trees become liabilities rather than assets. If a tree is showing signs of significant health or structural issues, it might be time to consider removal. At Western Washington Tree Service, we can determine whether trees are posing safety hazards and then remove them as necessary. Here are five signs that your tree should be removed: Significant Damage or Decay Large cracks in the trunk, missing bark, or deep cavities indicate structural instability. Decaying trees can also pose a serious risk of falling, especially in high winds or during storms. If your tree appears to have significant structural damage, it should be inspected by the arborist ASAP. Dead or Dying Branches Dead or dying branches throughout the crown of the tree could indicate serious underlying health issues. While pruning can sometimes help manage deadwood, a tree with numerous dead branches is often past saving. These branches are not only unsightly, but also present a danger, as they can break off unexpectedly. Leaning Significantly While a tree may naturally grow at a slight angle, a tree that suddenly leans or begins to tilt more than usual may be unstable. Trees that lean excessively are likely experiencing root or trunk issues that make them prone to toppling over. If the lean is accompanied by cracks in the soil or exposed roots, immediate action should be taken. Leaning trees—particularly near homes, driveways, or power lines—can pose a major safety risk. Fungal Growth at the Base Fungal growth around the base of a tree is often a sign of internal rot. These fungi feed on decaying wood, indicating that the tree's structural integrity has been compromised. Even if the tree looks healthy on the outside, the presence of fungi can suggest significant internal decay that weakens the tree. Root Problems The health of a tree’s root system directly impacts its overall stability. If you notice signs of root damage, such as roots heaving out of the ground or soil movement around the base of the tree, the tree may be at risk of falling. Construction activities and changes in the surrounding can contribute to root problems. Unfortunately, root damage is often difficult to repair, and tree removal is often the safest course of action. Tree Removal in Duvall, WA When you need tree removal in Duvall, WA and the surrounding area, contact Western Washington Tree Service at  425-292-8859  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Duvall!